How To Make Jordan Almonds A Step-by-Step Guide

Aug 8, 2025 by ADMIN 48 views

Hey there, candy enthusiasts! Ever wondered how those elegant, pastel-colored Jordan almonds are made? They're a classic treat, perfect for weddings, holidays, or just a sweet snack. But what exactly sets them apart from other candied nuts? Well, the magic lies in the smooth, hard candy shell that completely encases the almond, unlike the lighter coating on candied almonds. Today, we're diving deep into the process of creating these delightful confections right in your own kitchen. So, grab your aprons, and let's get started on this sweet adventure!

What are Jordan Almonds?

So, what exactly are Jordan almonds, guys? These aren't your average sugared nuts. They're a time-honored confection, traditionally served at weddings and special occasions. The key difference lies in their coating. While other candied almonds might have a light dusting of sugar, Jordan almonds boast a thick, smooth shell of candy that completely envelops the nut. This creates a unique textural experience – a satisfying crunch followed by the nutty flavor of the almond. They're often pastel-colored, adding a touch of elegance to any dessert table. The history of Jordan almonds is as rich as their flavor. Some believe they date back to ancient Rome, where sugared almonds were given as tokens of good luck. Over the centuries, they've become a symbol of good fortune, health, happiness, and prosperity – often representing the five wishes for the bride and groom at a wedding. The process of making Jordan almonds is a labor of love, requiring patience and skill. It involves slowly building up layers of sugar syrup around the almond in a rotating pan, a technique known as panning. This method ensures a smooth, even coating and that signature hard shell. The ingredients are simple – almonds, sugar, water, and sometimes a touch of flavoring or coloring – but the result is a truly special treat. Whether you're looking to create a beautiful wedding favor or simply want to indulge in a classic candy, understanding what Jordan almonds are is the first step in appreciating their unique charm.

Key Ingredients and Equipment

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up a batch of these delightful treats. The beauty of making Jordan almonds is that the ingredient list is surprisingly simple. You'll need:

Almonds: Blanched, whole almonds are the traditional choice. Blanched almonds have had their skins removed, giving the final product a smoother appearance.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the star of the candy coating. It provides the sweetness and structure for the shell.
Water: Water is essential for creating the sugar syrup that forms the candy coating.
Food Coloring (optional): This is where you can get creative! Pastel colors are classic for Jordan almonds, but feel free to experiment with your favorite hues. Gel food coloring is recommended for vibrant, consistent color.
Flavoring (optional): A touch of vanilla extract or other flavorings can add another layer of deliciousness.

Now, let's move on to the equipment. While you don't need fancy gadgets, a few key tools will make the process much smoother:

Large, Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This is crucial for making the sugar syrup. A heavy-bottomed pot will distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
Candy Thermometer: This is non-negotiable! A candy thermometer ensures that your sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature, which is essential for the candy coating to harden properly.
Large Mixing Bowl: You'll need a large bowl to toss the almonds in the sugar syrup.
Baking Sheets: Line these with parchment paper to prevent the almonds from sticking as they dry.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sugar syrup and tossing the almonds.
Rotating Pan (optional but recommended): A panning machine, or even a simple cement mixer (thoroughly cleaned, of course!), can make the coating process much easier and more consistent. However, you can definitely make Jordan almonds without one – it just requires a bit more elbow grease.

Having the right ingredients and equipment is half the battle. With these essentials in hand, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful and delicious homemade Jordan almonds.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Jordan Almonds

Okay, guys, time to get down to the nitty-gritty! Making Jordan almonds is a process, but it's totally doable with a little patience and these step-by-step instructions. Trust me, the end result is worth it!

Step 1: Prepare the Almonds

If you're starting with unblanched almonds, you'll need to remove the skins. Blanching is easy: simply boil the almonds for a minute or two, then drain them and run them under cold water. The skins should slip right off. Once blanched, spread the almonds out on a baking sheet and let them dry completely. This is a crucial step, as any moisture can interfere with the candy coating.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup

In your large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the sugar and water according to your recipe. Over medium heat, stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and insert your candy thermometer. Bring the syrup to the hard-ball stage (around 250-265°F or 121-129°C). It's important to monitor the temperature closely, as this will determine the texture of your candy coating.

Step 3: Coat the Almonds

This is where the magic happens! Remove the sugar syrup from the heat and let it cool slightly for a minute or two. Pour a small amount of the syrup over the dried almonds in your large mixing bowl. Toss the almonds gently but thoroughly to coat them evenly. If you're using a rotating pan, this is where you'll transfer the almonds and syrup. The key is to build up the coating gradually, adding small amounts of syrup and allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. This process can take several hours, so be prepared for a bit of a commitment.

Step 4: Color and Flavor (Optional)

Once you've built up a few layers of coating, you can add food coloring and flavoring. Divide the almonds into separate bowls if you want to create different colors. Add a few drops of gel food coloring to the syrup and stir to combine. Toss the almonds in the colored syrup until they're evenly coated. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract or other flavoring to the syrup at this stage.

Step 5: Dry the Almonds

After each layer of coating, spread the almonds out in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets and let them dry completely. This can take several hours, or even overnight. The drying process is essential for creating that smooth, hard candy shell.

Step 6: The Final Coating

Continue adding layers of syrup and drying the almonds until you reach the desired thickness of the candy coating. The more layers you add, the smoother and more polished the final product will be.

Step 7: Polish (Optional)

For an extra-glossy finish, you can polish the Jordan almonds in a clean, dry pan or rotating machine. This will help to smooth out any imperfections and give them a beautiful sheen.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Once the almonds are completely dry and polished (if desired), they're ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. And there you have it – your very own batch of homemade Jordan almonds! See, it wasn't so scary after all, was it?

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Jordan Almonds

Alright, guys, let's talk about some insider secrets! Making perfect Jordan almonds can be a bit of an art, but with these tips and tricks, you'll be churning out professional-looking candies in no time.

Patience is Key: This is probably the most important tip of all. The coating process takes time, so don't rush it. Adding the syrup in thin layers and allowing each layer to dry completely is essential for a smooth, even finish.
Control the Humidity: Humidity can be your enemy when making Jordan almonds. If the air is too humid, the candy coating may not dry properly. Try to make them on a dry day, or use a dehumidifier in your kitchen.
Use a Candy Thermometer: Seriously, don't skip this! A candy thermometer is the only way to ensure that your sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature. If the syrup is too hot, the coating will be brittle. If it's too cold, the coating will be sticky.
Keep the Syrup Warm: As you're coating the almonds, keep the sugar syrup warm over very low heat. This will prevent it from hardening and make it easier to work with.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Whether you're using a rotating pan or tossing the almonds in a bowl, don't overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the almonds are coated evenly.
Experiment with Flavors: While traditional Jordan almonds are flavored with vanilla, feel free to get creative! Try adding a touch of almond extract, citrus zest, or even a hint of spice to the syrup.
Get Creative with Colors: Pastel colors are classic, but there's no reason you can't experiment with brighter hues or even metallic finishes. Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant results.
Troubleshooting: If your candy coating is too thick, add a little water to the syrup. If it's too thin, cook the syrup for a bit longer to evaporate some of the water. If the almonds are sticking together, try tossing them with a little powdered sugar.

With these tips and tricks in your arsenal, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any Jordan almond challenge. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first batch isn't flawless. Keep experimenting, and you'll soon be a Jordan almond pro!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Awesome, you've made a beautiful batch of Jordan almonds! Now, let's talk about how to store them so they stay fresh and delicious, and some fun ways to serve them up.

Storage:

The good news is that Jordan almonds store really well. To keep them in tip-top shape, follow these simple guidelines:

Airtight Container: The key to preserving the crisp candy shell is to store them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from absorbing moisture and becoming sticky.
Room Temperature: There's no need to refrigerate Jordan almonds. In fact, refrigeration can actually make them sticky. Store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Layering: If you're storing a large batch, you can layer the almonds in the container, but make sure to place a piece of parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Shelf Life: When stored properly, Jordan almonds can last for several weeks, or even months. However, they're usually so delicious that they don't stick around for long!

Serving Suggestions:

Jordan almonds are a classic treat for a reason – they're elegant, delicious, and versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve them:

Wedding Favors: This is the most traditional use for Jordan almonds. Place a small handful in a decorative bag or box for each guest. The five almonds often symbolize health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity.
Candy Buffets: Jordan almonds add a touch of sophistication to any candy buffet. Display them in glass jars or bowls for a visually appealing and tasty treat.
Party Favors: Jordan almonds aren't just for weddings! They make a lovely party favor for any special occasion, from birthdays to baby showers.
Gifts: A small bag of homemade Jordan almonds makes a thoughtful and personalized gift.
Dessert Table: Add a bowl of Jordan almonds to your dessert table for a classic and elegant touch.
Snacking: Of course, you can always just enjoy them straight out of the container! They're the perfect sweet treat to satisfy your cravings.

No matter how you choose to store and serve them, Jordan almonds are sure to be a hit. Their beautiful colors and delicious flavor make them a timeless confection that everyone will love. So go ahead, whip up a batch and enjoy!